2010 Jaguar XJ Series: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

What was to be the 2010 Jaguar XJ will instead debut as a 2011 model during the first half of calendar 2010. Jaguar's flagship sedan will come in standard and extended-wheelbase "L" versions. The latter's wheelbase is about 5 inches longer than standard versions. Trim levels will include base XJ, mid-level Supercharged, and top-line Supersport. All will be available in standard and extended body styles, and they will use 5.0-liter V8 engines that team with 6-speed automatic transmissions. The base XJ and XJL will have 385 horsepower. The XJ Supercharged and XJL Supercharged will have 470 horsepower. The XJ Supersport and XJL Supersport will have 510 horsepower. Note that Supersport models will be offered only through special order; they will not be stocked as part of normal dealer inventory. Available safety features will include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front-side airbags. All XJs will have Jaguar's Adaptive Dynamics adjustable air suspension, a voice-activated navigation system, and a hard drive for storing digital music files. A dual-screen DVD entertainment system will be available. See the 2011 Jaguar XJ report for more information and Consumer Guide's full review.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium-Large Cars are top-of-the-line sedans in size and luxury. Many are manufacturer flagships and/or showcases for the newest automotive technology. Some have six-figure price tags.

Our Best Buys are the Hyundai Genesis, Lexus LS, and Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Our Recommended picks are the Audi A8 and Cadillac DTS.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Fisker Karma, Jaguar XJ Series, Lexus LS, and Porsche Panamera. The BMW 7-Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class gain gas/electric hybrid models for 2010.